Overview
- In an interview with The Athletic, the Portland forward says online attacks tied to his Israeli nationality overshadow his performance and have taken an emotional toll.
- Avdija says he is not a political figure, asking for respect for his play and telling people who are not educated on the Middle East to refrain from commenting.
- Through 41 games, he is averaging 26.2 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 6.9 assists, fueling All-Star buzz that now includes praise from LeBron James.
- Background reporting details a rocky youth in Israel marked by harsh coaching and bullying, which he says toughened him even as it drained his joy for the game.
- Coverage credits a simplified role in Portland under now-suspended coach Chauncey Billups—focused on rebounding, running, and playmaking—with helping unlock his current form.